Joel and Lynn Gazis-Sax wrote:> > Stephen Barnard wrote:> >> > Joel and Lynn Gazis-Sax wrote:> > >> > > The point that this so-called> > > anthropologist cannot understand is that the offensiveness of a term> > > is a matter for the recipient to decide. You are allowed one mistake> > > in polite circles, but after you are informed it is offensive, you> > > have no further excuse.> > >> >> > The problem that arises is when the intersection of the sets of> > permissible terms, gathered over all the interested parties, is the null> > set.> >> > Steve Barnard> > Thus some kind of rule is needed, Steve. And the best one I have found> in all such cases is to ask the simple question:> > What do you want me to call you?> > Regards,> > Joel